Uber begins a push to get its drivers into electric cars

A zero emissions vehicle, which uses a hydrogen fuel cell to power an electric motor, refuels in La Canada, Calif., in Sept. 2016. (Myung J. Chun/Los Angeles Times/TNS)

As Uber tries to build its reputation as a good citizen, it's unveiling a new plan: get its drivers to adopt electric vehicles instead of driving cars that burn gasoline. 

On June 19, the ride-hailing giant announced a yearlong pilot programme in which it will provide monetary subsidies to some drivers who use electric vehicles, or EVs; build features into its app that are specific to drivers who operate those vehicles; and partner with non-profits and UC Davis researchers to identify ways Uber and policymakers can encourage and reward adoption of EVs.